(NC) In the wake of a global pandemic, many people are having trouble managing chronic illnesses. Booking checkups and tests can be a challenge and pose extra safety risks for those with pre-existing conditions. Fortunately, new technology can help people access the care they need, even now.
For those who need help managing their diabetes, a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is a great tool. A CGM device like the Dexcom G6 tracks glucose levels at regular intervals and can provide patients with readings in real-time, along with trend arrows to indicate where glucose levels are headed. This more complete picture along with predictive alerts can help patients make better treatment decisions.
Here are some more benefits to consider:
Avoid serious lows
Patients who have insight into their glucose levels in advance of an oncoming low can get ahead of problems and prevent severe adverse events.
A patient of mine was once driving when she received an urgent low soon alert on her Dexcom G6 CGM device, and luckily, she was able to pull over and treat before having a severe low blood sugar episode. Had she not had that technology, then there would have been a very bad outcome, says Dr. Akshay Jain, a Vancouver-based endocrinologist.
Increase efficient and confident diabetes care
With advanced CGM systems, healthcare providers can access their patients glycemic data remotely and make clinically informed decisions by having patient information at their fingertips.
A CGM is an important self-management tool for people with diabetes, but also a critically important tool for specialists to be maximally confident and helpful in prescribing and adjusting complex insulin therapy. Without such technology, diabetes care visits are much less efficient and less effective for the person with diabetes, the provider, and the health care system explains Dr. Bruce Perkins, an endocrinologist at the University of Toronto and Director of the Leadership Sinai Centre for Diabetes.
Ensure healthy, safe access to care through telemedicine
No one likes to make the trip to the clinic or spend time in a waiting room, especially during a pandemic and especially not immunocompromised patients. Device apps can allow patients to share glucose data directly with their healthcare providers and set up appointments to discuss their care virtually, from the safety and comfort of home.
